London: England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday appointed Joe Root as England’s Test team captain. The Yorkshireman will succeed Alastair Cook, who stepped down from England’s Test team captaincy earlier this month. Root, who became England’s 80th Test captain, will have Ben Stokes as his deputy.
While ECB had interviewed Stuart Broad and Ben Stokes, alongside Root, for the role, Root, who was a clear-cut favourite, was unveiled as England’s captain in the longest format of the game.
“It is a huge honour to be given the England Test captaincy," said Root as he reacted to the news of his appointment as England’s skipper.
"I feel privileged, humbled and very excited. We have a very good group of players and I’m looking forward to leading them out in the summer, building on Alastair’s achievements and making the most of our talents in the years ahead,” added Root.
Root, who is considered as one of the best batsmen going around alongside Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson and Steve Smith, also made it clear that the senior cricketers in the side will play an influential role.
“The senior guys in the changing room play a very influential role and whilst there’s a natural progression for me it’s a huge support to know that they are there to help and advise,” said Root.
